The 2026 Kiddie Kapers Parade will take place on SUNDAY, July 12th at 3 pm
2026 THEME: America Salutes Red, White & Boots
2026 GRAND MARSHAL: Addison Joy McWherter
Read her bio below.
Thousands of people line the streets of the Salinas City Center to watch over 1,200 children ride on floats, bikes, in wagons, and more as a kick off to Big Week and the California Rodeo Salinas.
The parade ends at
approximately 3:30 pm (duration is based on the number of kids that participate).
No pre-registration required.
DIVISION & JUDGING INFO
The children in the parade are grouped into 8 divisions for judging. The divisions are Playground Floats, Cowboys and Cowgirls, Strollers & Wagons, Community Groups, Costumed Kids & Pets, Dance & Drill Teams, Group Floats and Rolling Riders (skates, rollerblades, scooters, skateboards, bikes and trikes-helmets required). Everyone is encouraged to wear western clothing.
Judging for Kiddie Kapers Parade is done by Parade volunteers and there is a first - third place awarded in each category. At the Parade’s announcing stand, the division winners are recognized. The 1st place winner in each Division receives a cash prize. There are two 1st place winners in the Cowboys & Cowgirls Division, one boy and one girl. These two winners get to ride at the front of the Parade in special cars. All other division winners walk at the front of their division behind a huge banner. 1st place winners in each division receive a handsome award ribbon. Each entrant gets a commemorative ribbon, a crisp $1 bill and coupons from local merchants.
Questions?
Please call the Rodeo office at 831-775-3100 for information. There are also answers to some frequently asked questions to the right.
